Dyplomatyczny wystawca klauzul apostille : rozwiązanie egzotycznych mikropaństw czy zapowiedź powszechnej praktyki?

The micro-states themselves (Marshall Islands, Tonga Islands) started to use the Hague 'Apostille' Convention regulation in a very bizarre manner. The apostille certificates are issued by diplomatic or consular representatives accredited in foreign country or in international organizations. Objects of certification are documents which have been executed in the territory of micro-state or on board of the ship carrying the flag of such a state. Such a practice seems to be contrary to the Hague Convention regulations. This paper analyses causes of such micro-states' mechanisms and possible future usage of such a practice by other states - parties to the Convention abolishing the requirement of legalisation for foreign public documents from 5 October 1961.